My Cousin Rachel Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A naive himbo inherits a fortune, meets a mysterious older woman, and decides to gift her everything despite everyone telling him not to, leading to dramatic and potentially deadly consequences.

🍿 My Cousin Rachel: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Orphaned Philip and Cousin Ambrose

Philip, orphaned at a young age, is raised by his older cousin Ambrose on a Cornwall estate. Ambrose provides Philip with a comfortable life, largely devoid of female influence, reflecting the societal norms of the time. Their bond is strong, and Philip views Ambrose as a father figure.

Ambrose’s Marriage and Deteriorating Health

Ambrose travels to Florence for his health, where he meets and marries Rachel, a distant cousin. Initially, he expresses happiness in his letters to Philip. However, his tone soon changes, and he begins to express suspicion about Rachel’s intentions and the medical care he is receiving.

Philip’s Suspicions and Rachel’s Arrival

Disturbed by Ambrose’s letters, Philip travels to Florence, only to find that Ambrose has died and Rachel has left. Convinced that Rachel is responsible for Ambrose’s death, Philip returns to Cornwall and inherits the estate. When Rachel arrives in Cornwall, Philip is torn between his desire for revenge and his growing infatuation with her.

Infatuation and Estate Transfer

Philip becomes increasingly enamored with Rachel, dismissing his initial suspicions. Blinded by his feelings, he decides to give her control of the estate, a decision that raises concerns among his friends, particularly Nick Kendall and his daughter, Louise.

Doubt and Deadly Accident

As Philip’s health declines, his suspicions about Rachel resurface. He begins to suspect that she is poisoning him, just as he believes she poisoned Ambrose. Rachel dies in what is believed to be a fatal accident, but the circumstances leave Philip with a lifetime of questions and uncertainty.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Rachel (Rachel Weisz): The enigmatic widow suspected of murdering her husband, who arrives in England and captivates his young cousin.
• Philip (Sam Claflin): The naive young heir who becomes obsessed with his cousin Rachel, struggling with suspicion and desire.
• Louise (Holliday Grainger): Philip’s loyal friend and confidante who harbors unrequited feelings for him and suspects Rachel.
• Kendall (Iain Glen): Philip’s godfather and lawyer, who advises him and expresses concern about Rachel’s motives.
• Rainaldi (Pierfrancesco Favino): Rachel’s Italian friend and lawyer, who is initially viewed with suspicion by Philip.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Philip: “Was she? Did she? Didn’t she? Rachel, my torment.” – Philip says this line in the last scene, encapsulating his never-ending uncertainty about Rachel’s true nature and culpability.
• Rachel: “The butter is melting. You better lick your fingers.” – Rachel says this to Philip in a seductive manner.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $15,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $2,716,368
• Worldwide Gross: $9,200,168

💥 My Cousin Rachel Reviews

Personal Review

I was completely drawn in by Rachel Weisz’s performance. She manages to be both alluring and unnerving at the same time, and I couldn’t help but question her motives throughout the entire film. Sam Claflin’s portrayal of the naive Philip was also believable, making his descent into obsession all the more tragic. I loved the suspense that kept me on the edge of my seat until the very end.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of period dramas”
  • “Viewers who enjoy ambiguous mysteries”
  • “Those interested in gothic romance stories”
  • “Rachel Weisz fans”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Suggestive content”
  • “Brief violent scenes”
  • “Themes of manipulation and suspicion”
  • “Sexual content”

Professional Reviews

• RogerEbert.com: “Rachel Weisz delivers a captivating performance, keeping the audience guessing about Rachel’s true nature. The film beautifully captures the era’s atmosphere, and while the pacing is deliberate, it creates a compelling sense of unease and mystery.
• Variety: “Weisz shines as the enigmatic Rachel, and Claflin embodies the naive Philip. However, the film struggles to fully realize the novel’s complex themes, and the ending feels somewhat rushed.
• The Hollywood Reporter: “A beautifully shot but ultimately frustrating adaptation of Daphne du Maurier’s novel. While the performances are strong, the film’s ambiguity and slow pace may leave some viewers wanting more.

Audience Reactions

Rachel Weisz’s performance was outstanding and really made the movie worth watching.: Viewers praised Rachel Weisz’s portrayal of Rachel, finding her both captivating and mysterious.

The suspense and ambiguity kept me guessing until the very end.: Many enjoyed the film’s mystery, appreciating the fact that it didn’t provide easy answers.

Overall Consensus: A beautifully shot and well-acted period drama, although some viewers may find the slow pace and ambiguous ending frustrating.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “The film is based on the 1951 novel of the same name by Daphne du Maurier, known for her suspenseful and atmospheric storytelling.”
• “Rachel Weisz described her character, Rachel, as ‘sexually liberated,’ which influenced her portrayal of the mysterious widow.”
• “Filming locations included West Horsley Place in Surrey, England, chosen for its authentic period architecture and atmosphere.”

🖥️ How to Watch My Cousin Rachel?

My Cousin Rachel (2017) is available for streaming on various platforms. You can find it for rent or purchase on Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play Movies. Check your local cable provider for on-demand options.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed My Cousin Rachel, you might like these similar films:

• Rebecca (1940): Another Daphne du Maurier adaptation with a mysterious female character and a brooding atmosphere.
• The Handmaiden (2016): Features complex female characters, a twisting plot, and questions of deception and power dynamics.
• Gaslight (1944): A classic psychological thriller where a husband manipulates his wife into questioning her sanity.

🛒 My Cousin Rachel Related Products

• My Cousin Rachel (Daphne du Maurier): The original novel by Daphne du Maurier that inspired the film. A must-have for fans of the story who want to delve deeper into the characters and plot.
• My Cousin Rachel [Blu-ray]: A Blu-ray copy of the film. This allows viewers to experience the film’s stunning visuals and performances in high quality.
• Sterling Silver Filigree Poison Pill Box Pendant Necklace: Based on the movie setting. Antique finish, filigree pattern perfect to complement any vintage outfit. Pill box shape to keep all your secrets inside.
• Victorian Style Tea Set: Elegant tea set reminiscent of the tea services featured in the film. Perfect for hosting your own mysterious gatherings.

🎧 Soundtrack

My Cousin Rachel features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Lancashire” – performed by H. Smart
• “Original Motion Picture Soundtrack” – performed by Rael Jones

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Orphan Inherits His Rich Cousin’s Fortune But Also His Wife

Okay, so you’re a bit lost or just need a quick rundown of the movie? This recap is super helpful! It boils down the whole plot, which is kinda twisty, so you’re all set to dive in.

Rachel Weisz and Sam Claflin Tease ‘My Cousin Rachel’ | Lorraine

Want to know what Rachel Weisz and Sam Claflin *really* thought about their characters? This interview gives you the inside scoop on their complex relationship. It’s actually pretty fascinating!

Sam Claflin & Laura Haddock At My Cousin Rachel Premiere

Ever wonder what it’s like at a movie premiere? This video puts you right on the red carpet with the stars of ‘My Cousin Rachel’! Hearing the director and composer’s take is a cool bonus.

My Cousin Rachel reviewed by Mark Kermode

Trying to decide if this movie is worth your time? Mark Kermode, a well-known critic, breaks down what works and what doesn’t. His reviews are always spot-on, in my opinion!

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